Jim, I woke up with a trach, and for the first couple of days, you will most likely not have the kind with which you can speak, so be SURE someone is there with a magic slate or paper and pencil when you wake up. The trach is where you will be suctioned. After a couple of days, the innards will be changed to one you can speak with when you cover it with your hand. Mine was removed before I went home, which was really a non-event. The small hole healed rapidly and now one has to look very closely to even see that I had one.

A positive outlook helps a lot during your treatment, so I am delighted that you have confidence in your new docs. Hang in there! We will be here to answer any questions you have along the way.